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What to Feed Wild Animals in Winter
On beautiful winter days, many of us are tempted to go into the woods to look for animal tracks and enjoy the peace and quiet. And on that occasion, we bring along some wildlife food in our backpacks. Good intentions often have bad consequences. Still, the enthusiasm for winter walking can backfire. Czechs will gladly bring treats to the feeders and bird feeders that the animals love and eat quickly, but sometimes the animals get sick. In such cases, it can even lead to the animal\’s death. So what should you bring to an animal and what should you not bring?
Pastries
Pastries are very popular to bring into the woods, but are totally inappropriate. They are especially very dangerous to deer, whitetail deer, and other forest dwellers. Ruminants cannot digest the gluten in bread. Of course, the animals are unaware of this, but even small amounts can cause great pain and even death. Therefore, do not bring sweet bread into the feeding area, even if it is sweet, such as Christmas cake, candy, or gingerbread.
Fruits and Vegetables
Deer like fruits and vegetables, but they should not be the main part of their diet. Carry only safe fruits that have not been frozen and are free of mold and decay. To prevent deer from overeating, do not bring in too large quantities of fruits and vegetables, and try to spread them out over several locations so that they are not eaten by only a few deer at one feeding site.
What\’s good for animals
All ruminants prefer hay the most. Alfalfa, clover, herbs, and raspberries may be dried. If hay is not available, acorns, buckeyes, corn, and small amounts of peas may be brought. However, be sure to distribute the food in several places and not leave it in only one feeder. This will prevent the animals from filling up on only one food source.
If the opportunity arises, arrange with the local forester to take the food into the forest. He or she should know where the animals are and what is missing or in excess in their diet.